ComEd has added two new, all-electric bucket trucks to its fleet. The addition of the zero-emission trucks is part of the company’s initiative to transition its fleet to fully-electric, biodiesel, and clean-powered vehicles supporting its work across northern Illinois.

The Illinois utility company’s fleet electrification is part of an Exelon-wide climate initiative, Path to Clean, and ComEd said it is on track to convert 50% of its vehicle fleet to electric by 2030.

ComEd has already been piloting new all-electric fleet trucks and has a mix of nearly 1,000 all-electric, plug-in hybrid, or idle-mitigation vehicles in the queue. In addition, ComEd is making facility upgrades and has added 500 charging stations across its footprint with more to come.

“Everyone benefits from the improved air quality created from the transition to EVs, regardless as to if you own or ride in an EV,” said Vito Martino, vice president of distribution system operations at ComEd. “We’re providing a variety of tools and resources to help our customers transition to an EV, but we’re also proud to walk the walk by electrifying our own vehicle fleet.”

ComEd said electrifying half of its fleet has the potential to eliminate an additional 29,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, building on top of the 4,000 metric tons of emissions ComEd’s fleet already avoids annually.

Electric Bucket Trucks Have 135-Mile Range

Designed for performance and optimal battery usage, the new trucks, sourced through Altec, are powered through a single-battery system that supports both the vehicle and hydraulic bucket, providing approximately 135 miles of range during standard operation.

“ComEd is taking steps to advance energy sustainability in Illinois through the adoption of electric fleet vehicles in their own operations and with resources and education for customers pursuing EVs,” said Samantha Bingham, coordinator of the Illinois Alliance for Clean Transportation. “The actions of individuals making the switch to zero-emission and low-emission vehicles play a role in protecting our communities, but it is also crucial that large vehicle fleet owners like ComEd lead by example in making this transition.”

Transitioning from Traditional ICE with Hybrids & EV

ComEd replaces end-of-life internal combustion vehicles with plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles. The company said that reduces fuel and maintenance costs while creating financial savings that are passed on to customers.

Supporting EV Adoption in Illinois & Offering Rebates

EV adoption continues to accelerate in Illinois, with over 100,000 EVs registered in the state, and the majority of those in ComEd’s service territory of northern Illinois. While ComEd takes steps to continue electrifying its fleet, the utility is also committed to helping customers navigate the EV transition.

ComEd recently launched its Beneficial Electrification (BE) plan, which offers more than $90 million in EV rebates to help remove common barriers to EVs and grow the network of EV charging serving the region.

As of February 2024, residential customers can receive rebates to offset the upfront cost of purchasing and installing a Level 2 charger at home, and business and public sector customers can apply for rebates to offset the cost of necessary make-ready infrastructure to install Level 2 or direct current fast chargers.

Rebate applications will be accepted as long as funds remain, according to ComEd. More information on ComEd EV rebates can be found online.